Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 February 2017
20. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which modern policing methods are used by An Garda Síochána in line with the best and most effective practice in other jurisdictions; the extent to which the use of motorcycles or quad units can be used for more intensive policing in both urban and rural areas as has happened in other jurisdictions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7647/17]
View answerThis relates into the need to ensure that An Garda Síochána has access to the most modern technology, forensics and transport in order to be able to compete with best practice worldwide.
We had a discussion on the points the Deputy made. We need to make sure that An Garda Síochána is resourced in a way that enables it to conduct effective policing in line with the best policing methods. As the Deputy said, that includes more resources. In his question the Deputy has described what he thinks is needed.
There needs to be better use of mobile technology. We have put funding in place in order to make sure that happens. Over €205 million was agreed as a result of the working group. Significant resources have been made available. The Garda Commissioner is the person, in accordance with section 26 of the Garda Síochána Act, responsible for that.
The Deputy mentioned policing developments in other jurisdictions, including benefits arising from increased use of the types of vehicles he described. Similar developments here have become possible because of the tens of millions of euro we have invested over the past two or three years. The money was badly needed because investment in An Garda Síochána could not resume until the economy began to recover.
I assure the Deputy that we intend to ensure that we provide resources to the Garda so we can continue investment in the fleet, not just for traditional vehicles but also those that are suitable for the kind of work they are now doing throughout the country, including on motorways.
I thank the Minister for her reply. I refer to the extent to which the use of modern transport such as quad bikes and mopeds can be encouraged in urban and rural areas in order, as has happened in other jurisdictions, to enhance activity and mobility.
I will make a particular inquiry regarding what the Deputy has mentioned. The investment we have provided so far has been used to provide the Garda with additional high-powered vehicles, marked and unmarked patrol cars and motorcycles to ensure they can be mobile, visible and responsive. Some €46 million has been allocated under our capital plan for the Garda fleet for the next number of years.
We have also invested tens of millions of euro in the Garda fleet in recent years. That has been acknowledged around the country and has made a difference to the ability of gardaí to respond more efficiently and effectively in local areas. No more than the discussion around mobile technology and the need to move to modern policing methods, it is an essential part of where An Garda Síochána has to go if we are to provide effective and responsive policing.
